If you have ever tried nymphing with a fly rod, odds are you have tried a suspension indicator rig for detecting strikes. Suspension rigs come in all shapes and sizes, but the New Zealand indicator system proves to be one of the best. This system uses tufts of buoyant wool which ride high on the surface while providing a natural look. The issue with suspension rigs is that they tend to pull your nymphs creating a somewhat unnatural drift. Often times, your nymphs will take much longer to reach the bottom and slack line may prevent the instantaneous detection of strikes. If you are a fan of indicator rigs but can’t seem to find the best method, we have good news for you. In this tips and tricks video of the week, Reds Fly Shop demonstrates how to create and fish a hinged NZ indicator system.
How to Set Up a Hinged Indicator Rig
- Start with a tapered leader and run about 4 feet from your fly line, then snip off the excess.
- At the end of the leader, tie a non slip mono loop to a tippet ring. You will want your tippet ring attached to your non slip loop.
- Attach a section of tippet off of the tippet ring at your desired depth based on the flows.
- Lastly, use the NZ indicator tool to attach your wool indicator to your leader above the tippet ring.
Benefits of the Hinged System
- Your flies will hinge down and fall directly beneath your indicator.
- Your flies get down much quicker rather than being strung along or pulled by the indicator.
- You have a lot more control over this system.
- Your flies will pace well in the drift.
- Provides a much more responsive indication of a strike.
- NZ indicators provide a great deal of wind resistance.
- NZ indicators also offer a splash free landing on the water surface.
- You can count on a drag free drift with this setup making it as natural as possible.
Now that you learned a little more about this indicator rig, head out to the river and test yourself. The name of the game in this industry is versatility and adapting to change. Don’t be afraid to try new things and experiment with how this system works best for you. You will surely notice a difference in the amount of trout you net during your next trip to the river. Best of luck out there and tight lines!
For more instructional tips and tricks, check out Reds Fly Shop by clicking here.
